A new programme has been launched to help oil and gas workers in the north east of Scotland transition into the sustainable energy sector.
The Oil and Gas Transition Training Fund will enable successful applicants to access careers advice and funding for training to move into sectors such as offshore wind, onshore wind, hydrogen, and carbon capture.
Around 200 oil and gas workers in Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire are expected to be supported to build the skills required to access sustainable energy jobs. The scheme has been developed by the Scottish Government, working in partnership with the UK Government’s £900,000 regional skills pilot for Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire.
The fund will be delivered by Skills Development Scotland and has been supported by an additional £40,000 from the Scottish Government.
Through initiatives such as the just transition fund and the energy transition fund, the Scottish Government has already invested over £120 million into transitioning the north east to net zero by creating green jobs, supporting innovation, and securing the highly skilled workforce of the future.
Scottish Government cabinet secretary for climate action and energy, Gillian Martin, said, “The north east has long been a titan in the oil and gas industry and the valuable expertise within our workforce must be at the heart of the transition to new fuels and sustainable energy.
“This new Oil and Gas Transition Training Fund will support offshore workers to take on roles in the sustainable energy sector and has been designed and developed by the Scottish Government, supported by funding from UK Government’s regional skills pilot for Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire, and will be delivered by Skills Development Scotland.
“I am determined to ensure a positive impact and powerful legacy of Scotland’s clean energy revolution which benefits communities across the North East of the country.”
Skills Development Scotland chair, Frank Mitchell, added, “Scotland’s oil and gas workforce possesses a broad range of skills and experience which is vital to the continued growth of the renewable energy sector. The shift to sustainable energy generation and transmission represents a generational opportunity, and this funding will assist workers in making the most of their expertise in that growing sector.
“Our careers advisers are available for anyone who needs support in considering their options, or whether applying for the fund is right for them.”
